Walnut Hill School for the Arts - Review #1

The arts focus of Walnut Hill made it so the students were all artistically passionate, creative, and motivated. Also the classes were catered towards this kind of thinking, so it was engaging to take part in. Sometimes the competitiveness can be overwhelming but overall I improved immensely as both an artist and a leader during my 4 years here.

My senior year was the best for me because I felt like I grew the most during that time. I was elected as the representative of the music department and I learned many responsibilities from that position. There were conflicts that arose but by talking to the students and teachers and working it out, I think I made a difference and learned many values.

When I first got to WHS, I was extremely homesick but also ecstatic about the freedom I was given. I dealt with it by neglecting my schoolwork and music and focusing more on my social life. I wish i could have opened my mind and realized what was important sooner.

I enjoyed the arts portion of my school the best; it's what makes Walnut Hill unique. The teachers are incredible and the classes very rigorous. Overall Ive grown so much thanks to this school and I wouldn't change my experience for anything in the world.

North House is the best dorm if you want an accepting, loving, and open family! Also if you are interested in another arts concentration other than your major don't be afraid to reach out to the teachers there and try to be involved. They are there to help!

It was catered towards our arts schedules, so it was challenging but not overwhelming. It was also largely discussion based which was good for staying engaged during class. It was hard to participate 100% all the time since some students had louder voices while others are more shy. Some teachers were better than others but overall I enjoyed my experience.

No athletics at this school at all

Extremely rigorous and thorough. I was a music major at WHS and I improved immensely through private lessons, chamber music rehearsals, orchestra at New England Conservatory, and countless performances. The teachers are renowned and accomplished musicians and have a lot to offer. In addition I also took a poetry class during my time there which was an incredible and eye-opening experience.

Not many extracurriculars other than our respective majors. There are many clubs, and I joined the Academic Olympiad, however I found it difficult to keep up with on top of my arts and academics.

Each dorm has their own family. I lived in the smallest dorm which was also gender neutral for my last two years. We called each other our siblings and hung out together all the time. I loved living in a small dorm because it felt close knit and special.

The dining hall was recently renovated and beautifull designed. The food was sometimes good and had good options but was sometimes badly made.

Natick is a cute town that is especially beautiful in the winter. They have a few restaraunts that are nice but not worth it most of the time unless for special occasions. The best part is the train station that goes to Welleseley and Boston, where there are so many things to do and eat.

It was great because I had a social group at my dorm and also in my major. There were many events held at my school where you could go have fun and meet other people, such as the halloween dance and cultural festival.